What will happen to your pets if you need to be hospitalized? Now is the time to make a plan.

"Companion animals are members of our families, and for many residents they may be all the family they have," said Dr. Yxstian Gutierrez, Mayor of Moreno Valley. "I urge all my fellow pet owners to take some time now to make a plan for their pets' care in case of emergency. They're counting on us."

Following are a few simple steps for making a pet-care plan.

Find someone willing and able to take care of your pets. Check with family, friends, neighbors or even pet sitters and boarding facilities.

Gather your pet's necessities, such as two weeks' worth of food and medications, cat litter and litter box and a travel kennel.

Provide written instructions regarding each of your pets, including your contact information, your pet’s feeding schedule, any medical conditions and treatment directions, and contact information for their veterinarian.

Include contact information for family or friends who will know your medical status and give updates to your pet’s caregiver.

The Moreno Valley Animal Shelter rescues thousands of animals each year, but it’s not designed to provide long-term care. That’s up to you.

During the Covid-19 crisis, all Animal Shelter adoption events have been cancelled. Also, during this time, all Moreno Valley Animal Shelter services are available by appointment only. To make an appointment, call 951-413-3790.

Upon request, this news release will be made available in appropriate alternative formats to persons with disabilities, in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Any person with a disability who requires a modification or accommodation in order to participate in this meeting should direct such requests to, ADA Coordinator, at 951.413.3045 at least 72 hours before the meeting. The 72-hour notification will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting.